Rhode Island just lived through its biggest snowstorm in recorded history. The Blizzard of '26 dropped a staggering 37.9 inches of snow on Providence — smashing the all-time record of 28.6 inches that had stood since the legendary Blizzard of '78.
If you're still digging out, you're not alone. Here's what happened, how it stacks up historically, and what Rhode Island homeowners need to do to protect their properties in the aftermath.
What Happened
From February 22 to 24, 2026, a powerful bomb cyclone tore through the Northeast. Rhode Island took the worst of it. Here are the numbers:
- Providence (T.F. Green Airport): 37.9 inches — all-time record
- Cranston: 39 inches
- Warwick: 36.2 inches
- Wind gusts up to 74 mph recorded in South Kingstown
- Over 50,000 Rhode Islanders lost power
- Governor McKee declared a state of emergency and issued a statewide travel ban
Providence alone saw 35.5 inches fall in a single day — nearly doubling the previous one-day record of 19 inches set in 1996. To put that in perspective, more snow fell on that Monday than Providence received in the entire previous two winters combined.
How It Compares to the Blizzard of '78
Rhode Islanders have measured every winter storm against the Blizzard of '78 for nearly five decades. That storm dropped 28.6 inches on Providence with wind gusts up to 80 mph, trapped hundreds of commuters on the highways, and effectively shut down the state for a week. Twenty-six Rhode Islanders lost their lives.
The Blizzard of '26 surpassed '78 in total snowfall by over 9 inches. Wind gusts were comparable. The key difference? Better forecasting and preparation meant fewer people were caught off guard. The travel ban kept roads clearer for plows, and modern infrastructure handled the load better — though over 50,000 power outages proved the state still has vulnerabilities.
As WPRI put it: "The Blizzard of '26 is the new Blizzard of '78."
What This Means for Your Property
Once the initial cleanup is done, the real work begins. A storm of this magnitude leaves behind problems that won't be obvious for weeks. Here's what to watch for:
1. Ice Dam Buildup With nearly 3 feet of snow on roofs followed by fluctuating temperatures, ice dams are a major concern. Water backing up under shingles causes interior damage that can go unnoticed until spring.
2. Crushed Landscaping The sheer weight of 37+ inches of compacted snow can snap branches, crush shrubs, and flatten hedges. Once the snow melts, assess all your plantings for damage.
3. Lawn Damage From Plowing Even careful plowing can tear up lawn edges and landscaping features when there's this much snow. You may find chunks of sod displaced, gravel scattered, or garden bed borders pushed out of place.
4. Salt and Sand Buildup The massive amount of salt and sand used during and after this storm will be sitting on your lawn, driveway, and walkways as things melt. Excess salt kills grass and damages concrete.
5. Drainage Issues When 37+ inches of snow melts, that water has to go somewhere. Low spots in your yard, areas near foundations, and poorly graded sections can flood. Keep an eye on your basement.
What You Should Do Now
- Keep walkways and exits clear — Refreezing is a serious hazard. Even after the bulk of the snow is removed, overnight temperatures will turn meltwater to ice.
- Don't pile snow against the foundation — Push it away from the house to prevent meltwater from seeping into basements.
- Document damage — Take photos of any property damage now. You may need them for insurance claims.
- Plan for spring cleanup — This storm will leave behind significant debris once the snow melts. Branches, displaced mulch, salt residue, and damaged plantings will all need attention.
We're Here to Help
Four Seasons Lawn Care has been out plowing and shoveling since the storm hit. If you still need help clearing your property — or when spring arrives and it's time to assess the damage and get your yard back in shape — we're ready.
Call or text (401) 767-0067 for snow removal or to get on the schedule for spring cleanup.
